Kiss of Death (1947 Henry Hathaway)

Eleazar Lipsky was an assistant DA who also wrote crime novels. His 100 page manuscript formed the basis for this film, which was written by the incomparable Ben Hecht, with Charles Lederer. It's interesting in that it gives early recognition to the influence of the Mob - who are supposed to be looking after Victor Mature's wife while he's inside after not squealing, but don't.

Introduces the memorable villain Tommy Udo, played as a maniac by Richard Widmark - his psycho character became the subject of college appreciation societies! (And not just them. Peter Bogdanovich was one who rehearsed Tommy in the mirror!) The scene with the wheelchair bound mother is really shocking. Mature also good.

With some nicely directed scenes (e.g. opening jewel robbery, appearance of Widmark through a tiny curtain gap), photographed by Norbert Brodine for Fox. With Brian Aherne, Coleen Gray, Taylor Holmes (crooked attorney), Karl Malden. Not really a noir though - some time I'm going to have to write my own definition...